Bornrich http://www.bornrich.com/ Lifestyle http://www.instablogs.com/site-img/insta-logo.gif Bornrich http://www.bornrich.com/ en-us Instascript 2.0 http://www.instablogs.com Copyright 2005 Instablogs Network. The content of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:52:55 +0000 Freedom R Yacht goes on sale for $4.9 million http://www.bornrich.com/freedom-yacht-sale-49-million.html http://www.bornrich.com/freedom-yacht-sale-49-million.html#comments Wrik Sen We had heard the Hargrave brand name a few years ago with the Vitesse luxury yacht, which was up for $1.9 million. Going on that very trend of building million dollar personal cruising yachts, they are here with the Freedom R yacht, which will up the ante of grandeur even further. With state of the art modern amenities, high grade technical components, and plush interior decoration in most area on the yacht, this vessel is ideal for a long cruise in the waters with one’s family. Seemed like a perfect toy for the billionaire yacht collectors!

Freedom R Unique yacht
Freedom R Unique yacht

This 108-footer yacht was designed by the likes Hargrave Yacht Design on the exterior, and Shelley on the interiors, who have given aesthetics and freedom to indulge the top priority. With surprising eye-appeal and smart use of space, the yacht includes accommodation areas like the master stateroom, guest staterooms, salon and dining area, gallery area, apart from lower and upper foyer area, crew accommodation, and even the tender garage to park in a smaller powerboat if needed be. Though polished teak seems to be the main indulgence amongst wood, there is the dining area which as rosewood and sapelli, apart from elaborate carpeting for the floor. The comfortable leather seating in the area, beckons for a leisurely time viewing the exterior beauty of nature as well. The bedrooms, which is this case are the staterooms, are nothing short of what would get to see at luxury palaces. With marble floored bathrooms and ambient lighting, one could spend hours just soaking in the luxury. Even the king size beds with their upholstery are worth the admiration.

Freedom R master stateroom
Freedom R master stateroom

For those who would need technology to surround them, there are state of the art systems, which we only had heard amongst the luxurious mansions. Flat-screen television sets from Sony and Samsung, refrigeration and kitchen from GE, are just some of the high-breed tech stuff that will be around.

Freedom R galley area
Freedom R galley area

This excludes the engines, which itself is a pair of Caterpillar C-32, 1,675 HP machines, which can thrust the vessel up to 21 knots of top speed, and a optimum performance cruise speed of 18 knots. For something that weighs around 107,956 kgs, the engine appears to be mighty efficient. All of this is now on the market, with a price tag of $4.9 million. Though pretty much endowed with most possible luxuries on a vessel, anything more than this would perhaps add more to this.

Freedom R rear view with aft deck
Freedom R rear view with aft deck

Via: Freedom R Yacht

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:52:55 +0000
Most expensive guitars http://www.bornrich.com/expensive-guitars.html http://www.bornrich.com/expensive-guitars.html#comments Karanvir Singh Guitars which are vintage, rare, owned and played by rock stars and guitar gods are sold for prices that earn them the status of being the most expensive in the world. Our focus here remains the price and the novelty values in the guitar that makes them unique and a collector’s edition. Some guitars comes encrusted with gems, festooned with solid gold, crystal-studded, artfully painted by hand, some comes with a history and some are bejeweled with sparkling Swarovski crystals. Here is our list of the world’s most expensive guitars that gives an idea to guitar lovers, that how much it costs to own these bling guitars.

Most expensive guitars
Most expensive guitars

1). Reach Out To Asia Fender Stratocaster Guitar

Price: $2.8 million

A unique Fender Stratocaster Guitar came out as the most notable thing auctioned to raise money for the Reach Out to Asia charity. Auctioned off in Doha, Qatar at the Ritz-Carlton hotel, this guitar is autographed by many music legends including Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, Rolling Stones’ Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Paul McCartney, Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page, David Gilmour, Bryan Adams and many more. All these rock legends autographed this guitar to support the charity, and the auctioning the guitar was the work of Bryan Adams, an internationally acclaimed music artist. This Fender Stratocaster Guitar is noted for its strong white build on its main body, and signed by rock stars along with series of silver accents that can be found around the top end of the guitar and its neck. Her Highness Sheihka Miyyassah Al Thani, heir to throne of Qatar was the winner of the auction, and the guitar was sold for whopping $2.8 million beating out the record originally held by Eric Clapton’s Fender ‘Blackie’ Stratocaster guitar. This valuable guitar helped in raising huge money, and the proceeds will be donated to support relief efforts in Asia, devastated with Tsunami.

2). Eric Clapton’s Fender ‘Blackie’ Stratocaster guitar

Clapton's Blackie Guitar
Clapton’s Blackie Guitar

Price: $959,500

Once owned by Eric Clapton, the Fender Stratocaster guitar, affectionately known as Blackie is an iconic piece of rock ’n’ roll history, and is one of the world’s most coveted guitars. It’s a mid 1950s guitar pieced together by Eric Clapton himself from various individual guitars, and it remained his main guitar throughout the 70s and 80s. Clapton’s numerous hit albums including Slowhand, 461 Ocean Boulevard and No Reason To Cry among others were recorded with Blackie. Eric on 24 June 2004 sold his Blackie at Christie’s Auction House, New York to raise funds for his founded organization, Crossroads Centre Antigua, an international center for healing and treatment facility for addiction disorders. America’s leading professional audio and musical instrument retailer, Guitar Center purchased the Blackie at auction for $959,500, garnering the record of world’s most expensive guitar now beaten by the sale of Fender Stratocaster guitar sold at auction for $2.8 million. In addition, with the permission of Eric, limited edition of Blackie replicas were made, and all got sold in just over 7 hours with a price tag of $20,000.

3). Ritter’s Flora Aurum guitar

Ritter’s Flora Aurum guitar
Ritter’s Flora Aurum guitar

Price: $250,000

Music seems to be smitten by the bling bug too and there’s no doubt about it. In recent times we featured a collection of crystal-studded guitars that, I’m sure, dazzled most of the music aficionados. But those seeking pure bling can rave-up as gold and diamond encrusted Ritter bass is up for grabs for$250,000. Dubbed as Flora Aurum, it features a pure gold bejeweled floral inlay with each leaf decorated with black diamonds set in platinum. Two flawless 3,3ct diamonds sit atop the two knobs while tiny green diamonds serve as knob position markers. Even the bridge, the tuner buttons and the knobs are hand-casted in gold. Exclusively handcrafted, the body is one-piece highest-figured quilted maple while the nut is crafted out of 10,000 year-old mammoth ivory. However with this entire bling factor, it still doesn’t manage to get crowned as the most expensive bass. German luthier, Jens Ritter, crafted such an ornamented Flora Aurum because he believes that “More and more people do not just want a tool for their job or hobby, they want a piece of culture.

4). Rock Royalty Custom Gibson Les Paul Guitar

Price: $175,000

One-of-a-kind Gibson Les Paul guitar had been customized by Rock Royalty with factory painted black body and white trim. The guitar is featured with four handmade Rock Royalty custom guitar volume knobs along with 24.56 carats total black and white diamonds set in superior silver finished with 22kt yellow gold rims and black ruthenium. Further, a handmade Rock Royalty custom guitar selector switch studded with 2.01 carats black and white diamonds set in the exemplary silver finished with black ruthenium and yellow gold rim of 22kt. The handmade tuning keys of the guitar are decorated with 17.52 carats black and white diamonds again set in sterling silver finished with black ruthenium. The Rock Royalty handmade pick-guard looks great in sterling silver with black hand-painted enamel and 22kt gold border which features a Rock Royalty skeletonized 1/1 logo in yellow gold of 22kt set with white diamonds of 2.08 carats.

5). Martin’s ‘History of Flight’ custom inlaid guitar

Martin's 'History of Flight' custom inlaid guitar
Martin’s ‘History of Flight’ custom inlaid guitar

Price: $150,000

Investing in art is a trend that has crossed the monarchy of paintings long back. People love to spend on sculptures, historical abodes, and even musical instruments. If you are looking for some finest quality music instrument, C.F. Martin & Co. has produced a unique guitar dubbed “History of Flight” honoring the legacy of air and space travel. Designed by Master Luthiers and celebrated artist Larry Robinson, the History of Flight acoustic is a tribute to the technology that defined the 20th century. Made from the finest materials, the unique guitar has Brazilian Rosewood back and sides, and a solid Adirondack Spruce top. The package comes complete with a Martin carbon fiber case and a “Making Of” DVD featuring footage of Larry Robinson and the Martin factory. The masterpiece could be yours for US $150,000.

6). Custom Fender Guitar by Damien Hirst

Custom Fender Guitar by Damien Hirst
Custom Fender Guitar by Damien Hirst

Price: $146,730

Damien Hirst, who is also known as the richest artist in Britain and is known for his outstanding artworks, is yet again in news. An exceptional Fender Stratocaster guitar has been hand painted by Damien Hirst that was used by the late ’70s band Squeeze. This legendry guitar is being auctioned at Christie’s Post-War & Contemporary Art sale in London on September 14. The Fender Stratocaster guitar is artfully painted by hand and is dated back to 1954. It has been used in many performances by famous musicians like Buddy Holly who played it in his show in 1958. The auction house is expecting to fetch $25,000 for this iconic guitar. The proceeds of this sale would go to the cancer charity organization Love Hope Strength Foundation and Teenage Cancer Trust. This is not the only Damien Hirst’s guitar that is being auctioned; last year also a guitar painted by Hirst was sold for $146,730. Other artworks of Damien Hirst that we have covered earlier are Louis Vuitton’s Travel case, Artistic Skateboards and the most renowned was his controversial blinged baby skull.

7). Midnight Opulence Fender Stratocaster

Midnight Opulence
Midnight Opulence

Price: $90,000

One of the most expensive Fender electric guitar named ‘Midnight opulence’ is notable for being encrusted with different type of jewels including citrine, diamonds, peridot, emeralds and blue topaz. Handmade from scratch, guitar is exclusively made by a celebrity master builder Yuriy Shishkov from Russia. The wires of the guitar are hand-hammered of fine silver and rose gold design. Swee Lee Music Company brought the guitar to Singapore after winning the bid at the National Association of Music Merchants in Los Angeles. Now the guitar is available for sale in Singapore at the price of $90,000. As per the reports, around 15 people are interested in buying the guitar including celebrities and buyers from Malaysian and Brunei Royalties.

8). Rock Royalty’s $85,000 custom alligator guitar

Rock Royalty's $85,000 custom alligator guitar
Rock Royalty’s $85,000 custom alligator guitar

Price: $85,000

This custom alligator skin, diamond and sterling silver Fender Telecaster guitar from Nashville-based luxury design house Rock Royalty is sure to lure the guitar lovers with its drop-dead gorgeous looks and high-end specs. The one-of-a-kind KAGED alligator guitar with Fender Telecaster body is covered in fine natural black alligator skin from Louisiana. The guitar has Rock Royalty’s patent-pending steel cage with chrome finish and red aluminum screws. The custom diamond & alligator guitar flaunts black diamond and sterling silver volume knobs, a selector switch adorned with rubies and six handmade diamond tuning keys set in sterling silver finished with black ruthenium. The Rock Royalty KAGED Alligator Custom Guitar costs a whopping $85,000. If you are willing to spend even more, you can also check out the $125,000 Rock Royalty’s custom Gibson Les Paul guitar.

9). Precious Rebels Art Guitars

Precious Rebels Art Guitars
Precious Rebels Art Guitars

Price: $15,000 to $75,000

Since the time “bling” has crept into our dictionary, nothing in this world has been untouched by its glitter. And if you have been stunned by Shakira’s Swarovski guitar, then you need to open your eyes and watch out for more stunning bejeweled guitars we have bought to you today. And as it has always been difficult to separate the two words, glamour and music, Amanda Dunbar’s Precious Rebels Art Guitars also prove the same. Swapping a canvas for guitar, this artist has plastered them with loads of colorful, shiny crystals that enhance its oomphness. Aptly dubbed as “Precious Rebels,” the blinged-out works of playable art run from $15,000 to $75,000. Designed to be more than beautiful sculptures or just basic musical tools, these titivated guitars are an innovative integration of technology, art, music to be played, displayed and enjoyed. Don’t they epitomize the meaning of blinged art in the world of music, regardless of who’s trying to play them? So far, the artist has created more than 30 guitars, such as the “Capri Tiger,” which features a metallic blue-and-black tiger crystal design. Another, “The Parisian,” is an intricate black-and-white swirled number. Also the Grammy Awards had requested a special guitar created by the artist that will be used to commemorate their 50-year anniversary. And Dunbar came up with a Gibson Black Beauty Les Paul with predominantly jet-black and black-diamond Swarovski crystals. Ah, if your fingers are itching to play a few notes on this pimped guitar, you need to keep them in your pockets as the yet, the guitars are not for sale to the general public. However it is believed that a major retailer is looking into carrying the line, and musicians and others in the music industry have also shown interest.

10). Gibson Zakk Wylde Bulls Eye

Gibson Zakk Wylde Bulls Eye
Gibson Zakk Wylde Bulls Eye

Price: $24,200

Known for its mammoth tone and over-the-top rock attitude, the Gibson Zakk Wylde Bulls Eye has been stripped down to become the definitive bling instrument. Commissioned by an anonymous Monaco-based British celebrity, this limited edition Gibson guitar is encrusted with 4,000 individual Swarovski crystals - each measuring exactly 4mm in diameter and covered in 24-carat gold. This rock work of art is done by Kim Webber Guitars and gold-plating specialist from Gold2U, who imported the instruments 24-carat gold strings from Germany. Also featuring the maple neck plated with 24 carat gold frets, the stunningly unique final product is estimated to cost around $24,200.

11). Dunbar Studios Swarovski studded Lions Rouge

Dunbar Studios Swarovski studded Lions Rouge
Dunbar Studios Swarovski studded Lions Rouge

Price: $22,750

For each one of us the idea of the “taste of music” is different. For some music is food and for some music is life, but there’s also the kind whose acoustic needs are satiated through ocular temptation. This is why acclaimed artist Amanda Dunbar transforms an American classic into a playable work of magical art. Transforming a Paul Reed Smith electric guitar into a unique art dubbed “Lions Rouge,” Amanda adorned this limited edition art guitar with sparking Swarovski crystals for Dunbar Studios. Limited to just five units, “Lions Rouge” priced at $22,750, features mahogany neck and rosewood fingerboard, each signed by the artist and has a radio frequency identification tag for security.

12). Vintage Gibson Les Paul Deluxe

Vintage Gibson Les Paul Deluxe
Vintage Gibson Les Paul Deluxe

Price: $15,875

Looks like it does not end at owning a guitar made by Gibson will do the trick; there needs to be a special makeover to please the discerning guitarist. After the 25/50 special edition and Firebird X, it’s the Gibson Les Paul deluxe guitar which gets a 24 carat gold and pearl makeover. Created by expert luthier Mr. Kim Webber, each strand of the guitar string has been individually coated with gold, apart from applying the precious yellow metal on the body. This was followed by the installing of the Mother of Pearl stones and shells, apart from recreating the mini-pickups in bronze as well. This has now been turned into a one-off piece of art, with a price tag of £10,000 ($15,875).

When the guitar came to Mr. Webber a while back, it was bought to him in a not so good condition. Hence, it meant that he had to taken apart, and then rebuilt individually with most of the construction redone according to the demands of the customer. It involved using white mother of pearl, as well as its golden variety on the inner layering of the guitar. After that came the reconstruction of the mini pick-ups of the guitar, which was done by a local metal worker especially for the customer? It was also then plated with 24-karat gold, something which was done on the strings as well, and eventually installed on the musical instrument.

Mr. Webber isn’t doing this job for the first time, or isn’t really a newbie. He has made numerous such one-off instruments for collectors, who have asked for some really whacky designs such as one with 4,000 Swarovski crystals. Hopefully this special edition will fall into a particular category of a custom made piece, which he estimates to be worth around £10,000 ($15,875). It’s just that we didn’t catch hold of the buyer’s name for this guitar.

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2012 07:02:36 +0000
1973 Porsche 917/30, “the perfect race car” to be auctioned at Amelia Island http://www.bornrich.com/1973-porsche-91730-perfect-race-car-auctioned-amelia-island.html http://www.bornrich.com/1973-porsche-91730-perfect-race-car-auctioned-amelia-island.html#comments Wrik Sen In what became one of the most spectacular and successful episodes of motor racing history, the Porsche 917/30 is set to go under the hammer at the Amelia Island auction sale, preceded over by Gooding & Company. Dubbed by many as the ‘perfect racing car’, this Porsche was an a part of the 1973 Can-Am season, and pumped out a huge 1,500 HP of engine power, making it the most powerful road racing car ever built. So much was its imposing presence on the racing circuit, which after driver Mark Danohue won the 6 championship races in the year, the SCCA had to bring about certain changes to their rules and make this car withdraw from future races. However, with the Amelia Island auction taking place, this Porsche is stated to fetch in excess of $3.25 million- $ 4million.

1973 Porsche 917/30 race car
1973 Porsche 917/30 race car

Back in 1973, the Porsche 917/30 turned out to be gaming changing for one and all in competition with each other. After winning 6 out of 8 races in the Can-Am season, the 917/30 was unfortunately withdrawn from the 1974 season due to the change in rules, to allow a standardized format of competition. All said and done, it was never really possible to compete with a fiber-glass bodied car which had around 1,500 HP of thrust generated from its 5.4 Liter 12-cylinder engine! Hence, by late 1974 the car was sold to Mr. Alan Hamilton, before Porsche bought the car back yet again, and displayed it at the company museum in Stuggart, Germany. Currently a part of the Drendel family collection, which has other vintage masterpieces going the similar way, this Porsche racer competed in other vintage races over the years including Monterey Historics, and displayed at events like Concours d’ Elegance and Rennsport Reunion.

1973 Porsche 917/30 race car cockpit view
1973 Porsche 917/30 race car cockpit view

Taking into account that this vehicle will be a collector’s item, the condition of the car has been restored to its original Penske-Sunoco color richness. Come this March, and some lucky buyer will be able to land his hands on this beast from Porsche, but might need to have a road of his own should he decide to compete anywhere. One could also check out our coverage of the Porsche Bonhams Quail auction event, which had 3 other vintage racing motors going under the hammer.

1973 Porsche 917/30 race car
1973 Porsche 917/30 race car

Via: Gooding/ Heritage Motors

]]>
Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:43:44 +0000
Third Rock Fire Pit recreates the earth’s fiery core right on your patio http://www.bornrich.com/rock-fire-pit-recreates-earths-fiery-core-patio.html http://www.bornrich.com/rock-fire-pit-recreates-earths-fiery-core-patio.html#comments Wrik Sen Ever since technology have stepped into the earth’s crust in an effort to explore it, it has always managed to uncover secrets which told a tale about the fiery core inside. May not be in the greatest detailing possible, but recreating symbol of the third rock from the sun with its core on your patio, is somewhat possible because of the Third Rock Fire Pit. Handcrafted from quarter of an inch thick carbon steel, this fire pit glorifies your patio or pathway with its fiery yet rustic look, adding aesthetics in its own unique way.

Third Rock Fire Pit
Third Rock Fire Pit

Created by designer Rick Wittrig, this fire pit comes individually numbered, apart from being made on order as when the customers give a go-ahead. On the interior, where one can place logs of wood for lighting, the surface has been treated with heat resistant paint, which prevents any sort of mishap from occurring. On the outside, the Ferrous Oxide (Iron oxide) finishing has been applied to lend it a very rustic touch, so that in the long run when oxidation does take place, it doesn’t darken very much, and remains more or less the same. What this would also mean, is that the pit requires minimal maintenance, and would be rather easy to clean after the fire dies out.

Third Rock Fire Pit
Third Rock Fire Pit

This set up, which is a total of 275-lbs in weight, will come at a cost of $1,679 each. But also do take a glance at the Rays of Light fire pit and the Sywawa Brandy pit design, resembling the shape of a brandy glass.

Via: Patio Product/ Fire Pit Art

]]>
Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:10:39 +0000
The D7 valve preamplifier is finished in 9-carat gold http://www.bornrich.com/d7-valve-preamplifier-finished-9-carat-gold.html http://www.bornrich.com/d7-valve-preamplifier-finished-9-carat-gold.html#comments Wrik Sen From recent trend in high-end consumer electronics, the use of gold seems to have become a growing trend. Though the reasons could be varied, the main would be the extra novelty and aesthetic value that it adds to anything created with it. We have previously shown you some examples like the En & IS megaphones, WA 234 monoamp, and the Gold Amp A100 that have used this precious metal as an differentiating factor functioning. Expanding that brigade even further is the Dalby Audio Design’s D7 pre-amplifier, which is aimed at looking great, and lending the Midas touch to the sound output emancipating from it.

D7 valve pre-amplifier
D7 valve pre-amplifier

Clearly aimed at those audiophiles who wouldn’t budge for anything less than perfection, and wouldn’t mind paying some premium for it, the D7 valve pre-amplifier brings in a 9-carat gold plated body, apart from the other premium fabrication within the casing. That would include the 30mm thick mahogany lining and 3mm copper internal chassis, which also play crucial role in ensuring the high quality acoustics expected from them. Apart from that, there are some high-grade specimens of engineering involved, including the PSU topology, and the Isolation Feet, aided by the mono crystal copper and pure silver internal wiring, which are known for their high conductivity. Breaking in down, the PSU topology includes the choke input, shunt regulation, and X2 KYOKU transformers, whereas the Isolation Feet comprises of the 60mm diameter carbon fiber unit with tri-ceramic bearing, and also the 34mm diameter carbon fiber PSU.

D7 valve pre-amplifier
D7 valve pre-amplifier

Hopefully the complications and craftsmanship brings about some plus point in this gadgetry. For a 100K load, the frequency response can be measured at 15 Hz- 40 KHz, taking care of even the most delicate sounds. But the interesting point in the whole set up, is the power consumption, which is below 100 Watts. So, your electricity bills are taken care of too! But buying this D7 pre-amplifier will cost its buyer $82,170 (£52,000). Though not very surprising for the most demanding audiophile, but this one could very well be a part of the set up of the rich boys for their personal AV rooms and theaters.

D7 valve pre-amplifier
D7 valve pre-amplifier

Via: Dalby/ Audio Lifestyle

]]>
Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:10:03 +0000
Mary Kay's pink mansion goes on sale http://www.bornrich.com/mary-kays-pink-mansion-sale.html http://www.bornrich.com/mary-kays-pink-mansion-sale.html#comments Wrik Sen Ms. Mary Kay Ash, who created the cosmetics giant Mary Kay Inc., was best known for her affinity with the color pink. It is known that the costimetics’ queen had many personal objects, which come in that shade, and one of them is on the market for sale. This relates to the $3.3 million price for her Pink Mansion, located in Dallas, Texas, which has some of her signature design ideas including the pink theme of the exterior, the pink bathtub with master bedroom, and also the pink quartz toilet. Apart from those large arches along the pathways, carved wooden artwork on walls and furniture, landscaped gardens, and sprawling private swimming are just some of the features of this property built by Ms. Ash. Though she may not have lived on this mansion since the 1990’s, she hasn’t left anything to be desired for in any part. Very reminiscent of her billion dollar cosmetics empire, which she built with equal care, and now generates around $2 billion in revenue each year.

Mary Kay Ash 'Pink Mansion'
Mary Kay Ash ‘Pink Mansion’

Price: $3.3 million

Address: 8915, Douglas Avenue, Dallas, Texas, USA

Settings and Location: Located in the posh neibourghood of Douglas Avenue in Dallas, this property is indeed every bit the grand mansion, meant for private group celebrations. In fact, this is where the cosmetics tycoon used to hold parties for her company consultants, after it got built in the year 1984 by the Dallas Design Group. In terms of settings, it’s truly regal in every way as it spreads well over 11,874 square feet, which included pathways with large arches, landscaped gardens with swimming pool area, main building with dining room, living room, 6 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms, apart from a separate garage area for car parking. The extensive quota of detailed glasswork and woodwork adorn the walls, bringing in a sense of vintage aesthetics. The main foyer and staircase area is one such example. The other notable feature of the single family home would be the Geo-thermal complaint construction, which helps in saving energy, and helps with better air flow management.

The Entrance foyer with staircase
The Entrance foyer with staircase

Accommodation & Amenities: 6 bedrooms with 7 bathrooms including the master bedroom, 19feet x 17feet in dimensions. Other areas would include the living room (40feet x 22 feet), gaming room, dining room, terrace areas, gourmet kitchen, and swimming pool with landscaped gardens all around. Wine cellar, library, and even vanity rooms with walk-in closets feature as a part of the setup. There is also parking space with the attached garage within the compound, which has capacity for 4 full-seized vehicles.

Bedroom Interiors
Bedroom Interiors

There lies a lot of regal style along the way with the selection of fabrication such as the vinyl wooden flooring in some areas, other than granite and marble in some. There is also the burglar alarm system, central heating system, gas distribution system, apart from handicap amenities like the elevator.

Private swimming pool
Private swimming pool

Facts and figures:

· Was built in 1984 by the Dallas Design Group, and used as headquarters by Ms. Mary Kay Ash to host gatherings.

· Covers an area of 11,874 sq ft which would include the main building and its amenities apart from landscaped gardens within the private compound.

· Was sold in the year 2000, during Ms. Ash’s moves to downsize and let go of some assets. The buyer, who purchased this property, also had a similar kind of background in her life, where she built her business empire from humble beginnings.

· The mansion has been recently painted in shades pink, which was the signature color of Ms. Ash. In fact, the master bedroom has a special bathroom, which has been given pink fixtures such as the quartz toilet set of the same shade.

· Was on the market previously for more than $5 million, but now is being offered for for $3.3 million.

Contacts:

Allie Beth Allman & Associates

Ph No: +1- 214-521-7355

Picture Gallery
Mary Kay's Pink Mansion
Mary Kay’s pink mansion goes on sale

Via: Realtor/ NY Post

]]>
Wed, 22 Feb 2012 13:08:47 +0000
Edvard Munch’s masterpiece ‘The Scream’ expected to sell for $80 million http://www.bornrich.com/edvard-munchs-masterpiece-scream-expected-sell-80-million.html http://www.bornrich.com/edvard-munchs-masterpiece-scream-expected-sell-80-million.html#comments Wrik Sen Norwegian symbolist and painter, Edvard Munch’s masterpiece, ‘The Scream’ is set to go under the hammer at the Sotheby’s auction event in May, for an estimated $80- $100 million. This particular painting, which happens to be one of the 4 versions that were ever created by the famous artist, is the only one remaining in private hands, and is now set to go for sale. Along with this, there will other works from the painter, which includes a self-portrait, and also The Madonna painting which will be sold at the auction.

Edvard Munch's The Scream Painting
Edvard Munch’s The Scream Painting

‘The Scream’ which stands as an icon in today’s times, symbolises the plight of man in the stressful modern day scenario. It shows a bald man clutching his head, standing atop a bridge on a river, below a reddened sky depicting the stressful times he undergoes. For the many pieces of art that is known around the world, the Scream remains one of the most popular as it now occupies a prominent place in popular culture. Mr. Simon Shaw, who happens to be the senior VP of Sotheby’s modern art department, says,

Self Portait by Edvan Munch
Self Portait by Edvan Munch

Given how rarely true icons come to the market it is difficult to predict The Scream’s value. The recent success of masterpieces at Sotheby’s suggests that the price could exceed $80 million.”

However, the current owner of the exclusive painting, Mr. Petter Olsen, would indeed consider himself to be a lucky person as he happened to inherit it. His father was a neighbour and patron of the Edvard Munch. The other works of art which will go under the hammer include icons like the ‘self-portrait’ of Edvard Munch, and also the famous ‘Madonna’, owned by billionaire Steven Cohen, both of which has the ever-common element of impressionism that the artist was known for.

The Madonna Painting
The Madonna Painting

With the interest they have generated over the years, it would not be a surprise to see a record breaking bid for them. Hopefully, there is a charitable element to it all, as the proceeds go towards building an art museum and hotel in Norway, where Edvard Munch and Mr. Olsen’s father were neighbours. Also, for similar art auctions, we do recommend taking a look at the recent Elizabeth Taylor art collection auction, which displayed much of the actress’s taste for historic and vibrant art.

Via: Reuters

]]>
Wed, 22 Feb 2012 08:18:26 +0000
Whitney Houston’s memorabilia to go on auction http://www.bornrich.com/whitney-houstons-memorabilia-auction.html http://www.bornrich.com/whitney-houstons-memorabilia-auction.html#comments Wrik Sen Beverly Hills, California will once again be center of news, as Julien’s Auctions organize yet another gala, which will see some historic memorabilia go under the hammer. Amongst the list of star attractions, will be singer Whitney Houston’s black velvet gown, and a pair of pearl earnings, along with Charlie Chaplin’s walking stick and personal driving license, Princess Diana vintage gown, President Kennedy’s rocking chair, and Christopher Reeve’s Superman costume. The gown which was originally worth $1,000, is expected to fetch much more, and the faux pearl earnings is expected to be somewhere around $600.

Whitney Houston's black velvet gown
Whitney Houston’s black velvet gown

Titled ‘Hollywood Legends’, this auction will see some of cinematic history’s greatest collectibles and memorabilia go on auction. Very recently after singer Whitney Houston passed away, the world has been centering their attention on her. With the auction of her black velvet gown along with the faux pearl earrings, her wealthy fans should be seen bidding rather aggressively for them, which would mean a rather higher winning bid for these items. The velvet dress specifically, is known to be every bit the designer’s work, with the elegant work of silver ribbon at the neck, along with black and clear stones at the waist, hence presenting a very aesthetic impression of a belt with the sharp contrast.

Whitney Houston's faux pearl earrings
Whitney Houston’s faux pearl earrings

As mentioned before, this auction will include other historical items such as the cane and driving of Charlie Chaplin, Princess Diana’s gown, President Kennedy’s rocking chair, and Chris Reeve’s costume. Held over 2 days from March 31 and April 1 this year, the bidders will be competing fiercely for these items, and they can do so through the online channel, or by phone, or even in person. The items will be put up for display at an exhibition on March 19 this year, at a venue near about where Whitney Houston breathed her last.

Other celeb memorabilia set to go on auction
Other celeb memorabilia set to go on auction

Via: Julien’s Auction/ Associated Press

]]>
Tue, 21 Feb 2012 13:49:32 +0000
Ukranian President luxury jet boasts gold-plated interiors at a cost of $86 million http://www.bornrich.com/ukranian-president-luxury-jet-boasts-gold-plated-interiors-cost-86-million.html http://www.bornrich.com/ukranian-president-luxury-jet-boasts-gold-plated-interiors-cost-86-million.html#comments Karanvir Singh Billionaires’ yearn for exclusivity and personalization. Going ostentatious is nothing new, but if a country’s elected president spends $86 million for a reflection of personal panache, it is definitely news. We have earlier featured how Donald Trump transformed his aircraft in to a luxurious flying palace with gold-plated interiors, this time it’s the former President of Ukraine Viktor Yushchenko’s jetliner that took the specialists three years to built. The state-of-the-art fifth generation aircraft A-319-115XCJ boasts luxury that the President of Ukraine can experience through its elegant decor along with high tech features. Unfortunately, while the jet was being prepared, the power in Ukraine changed, and now the jetliner will be used by the current President Viktor Yanukovych. He has decided not to spend any more tax money on the jetliner and will continue to use it as ordered by his predecessor.

Ukranian President luxury jet
Ukranian President luxury jet

According to Aviation of Ukraine, the jetliner is featured with an office on board along with a conference room, compartment for delegates, a kitchen, luggage and a rest area. Upholstered in beige, the interiors are luxuriant, especially the bedroom area, lamps, the faucet and the pink-marbled sink in the bathroom, all are gold plated, and provides opulent luxury for the President. The tables, cabinets and panels got furnished with light lacquered wood, and the bedroom area is upholstered with soft to touch, expensive and luxurious Jacquard fabric. Gold leaf decorated back bed and above it hangs a gold framed mirror reflecting its exclusivity and luxury. It is truly a President’s aircraft.

Gold plated interiors
Gold plated interiors

Pilots trained in France will fly this luxury jet which has now become the basic aircraft of the President of Ukraine. Recently, the jetliner hit the step unit at Borispol Airport, as President Viktor Yanukovych was visiting Greece and later Yanukovych had to board his reserve aircraft, II-62. It is reported that Ukrainian state-run aviation has finalized the technical servicing contract of this jetliner which is valued at $519,962.

Truly a President’s aircraft
Truly a President’s aircraft

Via: Pravda.Ru

]]>
Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:34:49 +0000
Maîtres du Temps 'Chapter Two' diamond watch by Daniel Roth http://www.bornrich.com/matres-du-temps-chapter-diamond-watch-daniel-roth.html http://www.bornrich.com/matres-du-temps-chapter-diamond-watch-daniel-roth.html#comments Wrik Sen Over the recent past when we followed Maitres du Temps as a watchmaker, we came to a common ground in concluding that each new offering, is indeed another chapter in fine watch making. Raising their bar for crafted timepieces yet again, they bring in the Chapter two watch, which combines 2 different functions (big date and triple calendar) along with great aesthetics highlighted by diamonds, on to this common platform. Despite all complications within its core movement, reading time didn’t get much easier than this, especially for the specific genre of watches.

Maitre du Temps Chapter Two watch
Maitre du Temps Chapter Two watch

Housed in an 18K gold casing, the outer lining is adorned with a total of 205 sparkling white diamonds, which highlight more prominently the 16mm thickness, 42 mm width, and 52mm length of the unit. In fact this decoration seems to go perfectly well with the other option which includes Rose Gold with white leather strapping, or the white gold with the chocolate brown option. The main dial however, features a white base on which a black circular path is marked, with prominent white roman numerals for the hours. Again, the base color of this silver toned dial can be chosen either in white or simply chocolate brown.

Maitre du Temps Chapter Two watch with chocolate brown detailing
Maitre du Temps Chapter Two watch with chocolate brown detailing

The rollers on the upper and lower end of the main dial indicate the month and day, whereas the particular date would be visible on the 12 ‘o’clock slot. There also is a smaller second’s dial at the 6 ‘o’ clock slot. Turning the watch over, the exposed skeleton of the movement comes to view, which has been protected with transparent sapphire crystal, just the frontier dial. Inside this cage, is the Automatic movement which has 338 components, out of which 32 are precious jewels. The vibration rate is pegged at 28,800 vibrations per hour, with a power reserve of 50 hours.

Maitre du Temps Chapter Two watch rear skeleton
Maitre du Temps Chapter Two watch rear skeleton

The only unknown aspects of this timepiece is the exact price, but estimates put it between CHF 50,000- 150,000 ($54,870- $164,611) a piece, but not with surety. Also no word as yet, if it is a limited edition just like the case for the Chapter One watch. But, surely Peter Speake Marin and Daniel Roth deserve the kudos for their creation.

Via: Swiss Time/ Zeiteisen

]]>
Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:27:44 +0000